Schedule disruptions expected for several groups and events

The schedule for a series of extensive renovations of the Central Square building, funded by State Bond approval, has been finalized for 2025. While the building will remain open to the public for many uses, navigating the building will be subject to change depending on which areas are being worked on at any given time. Some group meetings and schedules will be disrupted, mainly for groups who use the community room regularly. The second level art studio will be available for some group use.

These repairs and upgrades will bring long-needed improvements to ensure Central Square continues to serve as a community gathering space for decades to come. Renovation projects will begin in January 2025 and are scheduled to end in September 2025.

The renovations include significant updates to the historic auditorium, which will temporarily close, affecting the spring portion of Central Square’s 2025 Concert series schedule. 

Auditorium renovations will include new seating, additional lighting, expanded ADA accessibility, mechanical updates, and comprehensive patching and painting. These efforts will modernize the space regarding safety and accessibility codes and will create an elegant, comfortable, premier venue for performances and events.

Other building improvements include the renovation of the out-of-use restroom on the second level, the replacement of the front steps and doors, and repairs to the surrounding masonry in the courtyard. Sidewalks connecting the building’s entrances will also be replaced for improved accessibility. Additionally, the community room, the lobby, and the main-level men’s and women’s bathrooms will undergo renovations to better serve patrons and visitors and meet accessibility codes, as well. There will also be extensive patching and painting on the walls throughout the building.

Although the usual spring shows cannot be scheduled for the 2025 Concert Series due to the renovations, the series will pick up in the fall and feature four shows; two in November, and two in December. In anticipation of the fall performances, Central Square is now offering “Blind Faith” passes, allowing concertgoers to secure their seats early at a discounted price. These passes will be available until January 31st for just $80. After January 31, passes will be priced at $100. In 2026, Central Square will present their usual full concert series schedule of six performance events.

“We’re offering these “Blind Faith” passes for 2025 because we’ve had to wait on the construction schedule before booking talent,” explained Program Manager Jes Baggett. “Now that things are moving forward, we’re doing everything we can to bring in the kind of high-quality shows our community has come to expect. We’re grateful for everyone’s patience and support, and we can’t wait to share what’s ahead!

In the meantime, Central Square will continue its art education classes and summer music series, Music on the Lawn, which highlights talented singer-songwriters and features a free workshop before each show for aspiring songwriters and musicians.

“We feel honored and humbled to have this opportunity to restore and renovate this wonderful community center and public asset,” said Central Square’s executive director, Marie Chan. “These updates will not only preserve the history and beauty of this building but also ensure it continues to serve as a space where our community can continue to come together and celebrate the arts and other life events. It’s going to be a bit crazy around here next year, but it will be well worth it in the end”

To purchase 2025 Concert Series “Blind Faith” passes, visit Central Square’s office or call  (320) 634-0400.